What to expect during Universal’s Mardi Gras 2023: International Flavors of Carnaval

What to expect of Universal™ Mardi Gras 2023?

Visitors can expect to experience the vibrant and lively atmosphere of Mardi Gras 2023. Universal™ Mardi Gras 2023 will take place from February 4th to April 16th, 2023. The core of the celebration is a glittering parade with colorful performers and flying beads on select nights. There are also traditional Cajun delights available inspired by Carnaval celebrations all over the world. Mardi Gras 2023 is included with park admission, but some experiences, such as the Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience, may have required additional tickets. Also, some special shows and concerts may also require a separate ticket.

A marvelous Mardi Gras 2023 parade

One of the event’s main highlights is the Mardi Gras parade, which features dazzling floats, live music, colorful costumes, and flying beads. This year’s Mardi Gras parade theme “Mythical Realms of Mardi Gras” is a brand-new parade theme that has inspired six brand-new floats.The parade is usually held several times per day and features a variety of themes, including traditional Mardi Gras, pop culture, and Universal Studios franchises like Harry Potter, so don’t miss the spectacular Universal™ Mardi Gras Parade.

The parade includes several large and elaborate floats, each of which is decorated with colorful lights, beads, and other decorations. A variety of performers, including stilt walkers, dancers, and live musicians, accompany the floats, adding to the festive atmosphere of the event.  The parade route usually runs through the park and can be seen from a variety of viewpoints. Visitors should also expect to catch beads, doubloons, and other trinkets thrown from the parade floats. Throughout the Mardi Gras season, the parade will take place on specific dates:

Parade starts at 6:15 pm on the following dates:

• February 5 – 9
• February 12 – 16
• February 26 – March 2

Parade starts at 7:30 pm on the following dates:

• February 17
• February 20 – 24
• March 3
• March 6 – April 16

Parade starts at 7:45 pm on the following dates:

• February 4
• February 10 – 11
• February 18 – 19
• March 4 – 5

No Parade on the following date(s):

• March 31

The Mardi Gras Float Ride and Dine Experience will be a totally new experience for Mardi Gras 2023 at Universal Orlando™. Get a spot on a parade float and toss beads into the crowd. In addition, enjoy a three-course meal from the full menu at one of four participating restaurants at Universal Orlando Resort™. To ride on a float in the parade, you will have to purchase a special parade pass. The parade pass will grant you access to ride on one of the floats during a designated parade time.

Concert lineup of Universal Orlando™ Mardi Gras 2023

In addition to the parade, Universal™ Mardi Gras 2023 also features live music performances by popular artists, including both national and local acts. Guests can enjoy concerts at the Music Plaza Stage. These concerts are free with park admission and have previously started at 8.30 pm, but showtimes for 2023 have not yet been announced.

The Mardi Gras 2023 Concert Lineup includes:

February
4 – Patti LaBelle
10 – JVKE
11 – Goo Goo Dolls
18 – Maren Morris
19 – WILLOW
25 – 3 Doors Down

March
4 – Sean Paul
5 – Lauren Daugle

Incredible food from all over the World

The delicious Cajun-inspired food available throughout the park is another highlight of the event. Traditional dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets, as well as other regional specialties, are available to visitors. Enjoy flavors from around the world at Universal™ Mardi Gras 2023, there’s a little something for everyone at Universal Studios™.

Visitors can find special offerings during the event in Universal Studios™ with a Food & Beverage Card (available for purchase at venue locations). Enjoy 50+ Mardi Gras tasting menu items with your card for just $65, which is good through March 31st or until supplies last, whichever occurs first. You’ll also receive an exclusive lanyard when you purchase yours today!

Deals & offers for Mardi Gras 2023

Universal™ Orlando’s Mardi Gras 2023 event will likely be one of the most exciting times at Universal Orlando™ this year. Whether you’ve been here before or not, there are plenty of deals available to make your vacation even better.

To start off, Universal Orlando™ Annual Passholders can enjoy exclusive benefits during their visit. One deal that has already been announced is that Passholders can watch the Mardi Gras Parade from a special viewing area in front of Mel’s Drive-In on certain dates. Space is limited and will be assigned on a first-come, first-served basis. More information on Universal’s Mardi Gras Parade schedule can be found on the Universal Orlando Resort App.

Another great way to save money during your trip is the 2 days free with a 2-park, 2-day ticket deal! Visit Universal Studios™ and Universal’s Islands of Adventure™ for four days of thrills. For only $35 more, you can visit all three amazing Universal Orlando Resort™ theme parks.

Stay with Casiola vacation homes

We are sure that Mardi Gras 2023 will be a spectacular event this year at Universal Orlando™. There are many things to look forward to and we can’t wait for you all to experience them! Staying at Casiola vacation homes will enhance this experience. Many vacation homes are located near the theme park, making it easy to access all of the Mardi Gras fun. Staying in a vacation rental also provides families with a home base where they can prepare their own meals and snacks, which is especially beneficial for families with young children, or people who may have specific dietary needs or preferences. Overall, staying with Casiola is an excellent choice for families visiting Universal Studios™ Florida during Mardi Gras 2023. Let’s plan your trip now.